Pattaya or Phuket - which is better? If you have such a question, most likely you are traveling to Thailand for the first time. Which resort to give preference to? We will analyze in detail all the pros and cons of Pattaya and Phuket so that you can make the right choice.

Pattaya or Phuket?

It is actually very easy to decide which is better Pattaya or Phuket. Just answer a series of questions for yourself that will be asked in this article and by the end of this review, your opinion will be unambiguous. We are all different, we have different goals and priorities for recreation, so both resorts have their fans quite rightly.

Which city to give preference to? Holidays on the island or the Gulf of Thailand? Where is cheaper - in Phuket or Pattaya? Where are the best beaches? how much does a ticket to Phuket cost, and how much to Pattaya?
There are many similar questions; you will find the answers to them below. Let's compare the climate, weather, beaches, prices in Phuket and Pattaya, the cost of rental housing, transport, excursions and other important components of any vacation to make it easier to choose.

Where to go to Phuket or Pattaya?

To begin with, I have been living in Pattaya for many years. For permanent residence, Pattaya is without question much better than Phuket. At the same time, Phuket is a wonderful seaside resort, where you can come for a week or two to relax and leave warm memories. The main thing is to understand what to expect from this vacation, otherwise unprepared tourists will face surprises in both resorts.

Weather and climate in Pattaya and Phuket

Pattaya the sunniest city in Thailand. The sun shines here 330 days a year, and the average annual temperature is 28 degrees. Guided tours are available all year round (all).
In Pattaya, the weather is stable, the same all year round, with the exception of a short period of rains, which, however, do not interfere with rest even in the rainy season, as they go at night and for a short time.
In Pattaya, the whole year is +30 +35, in winter the temperature in the morning drops to +25.

There is no pronounced rainy season in Pattaya, you can go here to rest in any month. Most precipitation occurs in late October - early November.

Phuket Is an absolutely seasonal resort. From the end of March to November - the low season, when there are showers, red flags are displayed on the beaches and you cannot swim. Even most of the excursions for these 7 months take a break and are canned. So you can rest comfortably in Phuket only from November to March.

The weather in Phuket can bring a lot of surprises to vacationers. Firstly, Phuket has a pronounced seasonality, like other islands in Thailand.
If it waits in Phuket, then it can pour like a bucket and several weeks in a row.

The most favorable months for a vacation in Phuket are from December to March, in the rest of the months, the weather is unpredictable, you can come on vacation and sit in your room all the time because of the rains.

Round weather and climate remains with Pattaya.

Natural disasters - Tsunamis, earthquakes, landslides

Recently, an earthquake struck Sumatra, Indonesia, and there are casualties and deaths. It would seem, what does Phuket have to do with it?
Despite the fact that everything is close, in Phuket there were tremors of 3 points, not much, but unpleasant.
Remembering the 2004 tsunami in Phuket, you may or may not want to, but think about how safe it is to go there. I have a familiar family who died there during the tsunami.

Yes, in Phuket, after the terrible tsunami in 2004, they provided security measures, put signal buoys in the sea, lanterns and equipped places for evacuation. And I must say that they have already come in handy more than once. The question is different. Do you need it while on vacation?

Pattaya is the mainland. And this is where we can end. It never shakes here. There can be no tsunami or other natural disasters. Even during the flooding of Bangkok in 2011, only pitiful echoes reached Pattaya, and for a couple of days people walked ankle-deep in water.
It is very unpleasant to read the nonsense that the Russian media write when they confuse Pattaya with Phuket and then they call me and write to find out how we are here. Alive or not? Guys, we rarely even have rains, and there is no question of flooding, hurricanes and other things. It's always calm in Pattaya.

This point is also behind Pattaya.

Comparison of sea and beaches Pattaya and Phuket

You don't need to be an expert here to say that the beaches and sea in Phuket are many times better than the urban ones in Pattaya.

If you go only overseas to Pattaya, this is a mistake. The sea in Pattaya is mediocre, the city beaches are yellow sand and the water is often muddy. Not always, of course, and not everywhere, but the azure sea with white sand in Pattaya can only be found on nearby islands like Koh Lan and on military beaches in the suburbs.

In the high season in Pattaya, even in the city limits, the sea is very clean and transparent, the beaches are clean. Because the weather, (no storms, cool), and also because work is constantly being done to improve.
Tons of new sand were brought to Jomtien and Beach Road, which is poured into the sea, onto the beach, new palm trees are planted, the coastline is extended, in general, they are trying to at least not worsen what is.

There are more beaches in Phuket, the choice is wider, you can come and swim to any beach in Phuket.
In season, there are crowds of people on the beaches of Phuket, but due to the length of the coastline, everyone will find a secluded place for themselves. Phuket's most popular beach is Patong, not for introverts, of course. Those who need peace and quiet should stay in less crowded areas, further from the center.

If you have transport in Phuket, then you will have access to such good beaches as Freedom, Paradise, Three Trang Beach, if not, you can relax and swim in Patong.
Don't go sunbathing right off Bangla Road, walk a few minutes to the side and get a free beach with clear water, shaded by palm trees and no obsessive vendors trying to sell something every five seconds.

The sea in Phuket is clean, there is almost no garbage in the sea, after all, this is an island that is washed from all sides, and even if they litter from ships and boats, everything floats safely back into the sea. But it happens that the sea begins to bloom algae, which can spoil the joy of swimming.

Both in Pattaya and Phuket, it makes sense to stay in a hotel with its own beach, so as not to waste precious time on trips and hikes to it.
But, if you want a good beach right here, then you should choose from hotels in the North of Pattaya ( Centara , Cape Dara) or in the south outside the city - Ambassador, Movenpick, Ravindra , Dor Shada.
This is all the first line and the beaches will be swimable. If you want bounty beaches, the south is again better. From here it takes 15-25 minutes to get to the military beaches.

Round beaches and sea beyond Phuket.

The best hotels with a beach in Phuket are:

Kathathani phuket

The best hotels with a private beach in Pattaya are:

Also, for lovers of quiet rest and solitude flying to Pattaya, I would advise, if not for the whole vacation, then at least for a few days to stay on the island of Samet, on a good beach.
For us, the perfect beach holiday is there.

Samet Island

You can also go with an overnight stay to the nearest island, Ko Lan. Instructions on how to do this:

How to get from the airport to Pattaya and Phuket


From Phuket airport, it is cheaper and more convenient to order a transfer to the hotel you need through a Kiwi-taxi, which will be met with a sign and will take you to the place for a fixed fee, than to catch local buses or try to bargain with bombils, who overestimate their services at least twice.

The bus from the airport to Patong runs every two hours, if you arrive in the evening, this option is not available, since the last one leaves at 17 hours.
Early in the morning or in the afternoon, you can try to go by bus to Phuket town for 100 baht, and then with a change on a tuk-tuk. This method is not very suitable for beginners, since you can not wait for the right one, confuse stops, get lost and stretch the pleasure after the flight for long hours.

It is much easier to get from Bangkok Airport to Pattaya. The distance from Bangkok airport to Pattaya is 120-150 km, (depending on the area where you are going), you can get to the bus station in Pattaya for 120 baht.

The disadvantage of this method is that upon arrival, especially during the season, it turns out that all tickets for the next flights are sold out and the next bus will have to wait for several hours.
This option is not suitable for families with children, those who have had a difficult flight with transfers and the elderly.

I do not recommend ordering a taxi at the airport, it is expensive, they cheat. The most profitable option Kiwi taxi... We ourselves are getting from Pattaya to Bangkok airport and back.
A simple form of ordering and payment, you do not need to pay anything in advance, discounts are often made, they wait, they are greeted with a sign.

Here is a review about Kiwi Taxi from our reader:

"Good morning! We arrived yesterday. The Kiwi taxi driver was waiting for us with a sign at the exit, which was written to us in advance in the confirmation receipt. The car is comfortable. We got to our destination perfectly)) the driver asked us to take a photo for review, we did not mind)) Katerina, thank you for your work in collecting and writing useful information!) "

Phuket or Pattaya - prices for tours from Russia



And then Phuket loses to Pattaya. In most cases, the price of a tour to Phuket is more expensive than that to Pattaya.

Holidays in Thailand are a great opportunity to relax on tropical beaches at reasonable and affordable prices. It is no coincidence that this particular tourist destination is very popular among tourists from all over the world: Russia, Europe, America, China, Japan, South Korea and even Australia.

As you know, Thailand is washed by two seas: South China and Andaman. The most popular resort on the South China Sea is the mainland city of Pattaya, and on the Andaman Sea - the island of Phuket. Therefore, when planning their vacation in Thailand, many travelers choose between these two "capitals" of beach vacations.

Comparison of resorts

Characteristic
/place		PhuketPattaya
Beaches A huge number of clean, uncrowded and picturesque beaches (Mai Khao, Kata, Chalong, Kamala, etc.)Only one more or less clean beach on the mainland is Jomtien. Really clean beaches with clear water, white sand and no litter can only be found on Koh Lan Island (40 minutes by ferry from Pattaya)
Clubs, discos, nightlife Patong is a whole area for a rich club life, almost as good as PattayaThe most popular hangout place in Thailand is Walking Street. Many clubs, pubs, Go-Go bars, famous transvestite shows "Tiffany" and "Alcazar"
Ecology, parks, green area Many forests, parks, waterfalls, walking areas. Most popular parks: Safan Hin, Pra Teu, King's ParkPratumnak Hill is the only area where vegetation has been preserved. There is also a relatively small walking area. Strong smog in areas of the city away from the coast
Attractions and entertainment Snake farm, Butterfly Garden, Wat Chalong ancient temple complex, snorkeling, diving, surfingUnique wooden Sanctuary of Truth, close to Ayuthaya and Bangkok - the main centers of culture and attractions in Thailand. Amusement park Pattaya Park, fishing on the sea and lakes, many Russian guides
Weather Heavy showers, gusty winds and storm surges during the rainy season: April to DecemberThe sea is calm almost all year round, with clear warm weather during the rainy season.
Distance from Bangkok 700 kilometers165 kilometers

Comparing Pattaya and Phuket clearly shows what is more suitable for a secluded relaxing holiday on the seashore, and Pattaya is more suitable for parties and entertainment. We can say that the whole of Pattaya is one continuous nightclub. During the tourist season, which lasts from early December to early May, there are always a huge number of tourists. And since pedestrian sidewalks in Thailand are very narrow everywhere, then in the evening on the central streets you can get into a real pedestrian traffic jam.

During the tourist season in Pattaya, it is best to relax in large companies. It will be rather uncomfortable for one person here, because the atmosphere itself is conducive to constant celebration, noise and "crowd". When choosing a place to stay, the areas of Pratamnak and Jomtien are best suited, which differ from other places in their cleanliness and well-groomed. Areas remote from the sea are not very comfortable for a multi-day stay, as there is often real smog due to exhaust gases and ubiquitous street food.

If you ponder what to choose in Thailand, Phuket or Pattaya, then Phuket is certainly more suitable for connoisseurs of a full-fledged beach holiday. On this paradise tropical island, travelers always have access to crystal clear sea water, a huge amount of lush tropical vegetation, and exotic fruits. In addition, it is here that comfortable hotels with five and four "stars" are located, which have their own private beaches for their guests.

Prices

If we compare which is cheaper - Pattaya or Phuket, then the most budgetary resort will undoubtedly be Pattaya. Since Phuket is remote from the mainland, transportation to this island is more expensive for Thai companies. Accordingly, prices for food, entertainment and housing in Phuket are noticeably higher than in mainland Pattaya. For example, you can consider the main categories of goods and services that are popular on a resort vacation:

  • Restaurants. A full lunch (three courses for two) at a Pattaya restaurant will cost 500 baht. In Phuket, this amount will rise to 800-1000 baht.
  • Have a snack in eateries like "McDonald's" (for one person) in Pattaya it is possible for about 150 baht, in Phuket - from 250 baht.
  • Supermarkets. Roughly equal prices in Pattaya and Phuket will be only for chips, snacks, cigarettes, and essential goods. Meat, fish, vegetables, cheeses and wines are more expensive in Phuket by about 30 percent.
  • Transport. Travel on public songteos (open minibuses) in Pattaya costs 10-20 baht, in Phuket - 30 baht. A taxi ride in Pattaya from one area to another will cost about 60-80 baht, in Phuket - 200 baht.
  • Housing. In Pattaya, you can find rooms for both 5 and 6 thousand baht per month. However, it should be borne in mind that such housing, as a rule, has a lot of disadvantages: lack of windows, small size, old furniture, neighborhood with noisy night bars. In Phuket, housing prices per month start from 15 thousand, with a daily payment - from 1 thousand baht. However, apartments in Phuket are almost universally characterized by a high level of comfort, even if it is a three-star hotel.

Pros and cons of resorts

An ideal option to visit both resorts, because each has its own interesting and unique features. Close to Pattaya there are many cultural attractions of Thailand, including the ancient capital of the country - Ayuthaya. Many interesting temples, palaces and fortifications have been preserved here. Phuket has fewer parties and attractions, but there are many more clean spacious beaches. In addition, it is more suitable for families with children. It is on this island that most of the hotels offer special baby food, as well as mini-clubs and playgrounds for children. In addition, in Phuket it is easy to find a professional nanny from Russia who will stay with the child while the parents are busy shopping, visiting excursions or restaurants.

Holidays in Phuket will cost more, since the prices there are 1.5-2 times higher. However, this applies not only to Phuket, but to all Thai islands in general. If you think about it, such overpayments are quite justified, because only luxurious clean beaches are available. For example, Phuket has ideal conditions for exciting sports such as diving, snorkeling or surfing. Therefore, if you have a desire to explore the depths of the sea or ride a board on the waves, then go here.

When choosing between Pattaya or Phuket, the obvious advantage of the first place is its proximity to Bangkok. The hotel by the sea can be reached by taxi from the airport in an hour and a half.

Rain season

What to choose if the rest fell on the rainy season, but you still want to go to Thailand? In this case, the island of Phuket is definitely not suitable. On the Andaman Sea, high waves always rise during the rainy months, and it is simply impossible to swim there. But in the Gulf of Thailand, where Pattaya is located, it is always quiet, calm and there are no storms. And it rains here not so often compared to Phuket.

Oddly enough, the rainy season is perhaps the most suitable time for a beach holiday in Pattaya. At this time, there are few tourists here, the beaches are deserted and there is no garbage. As a rule, in the morning there is always clear warm weather, you can sunbathe, swim and enjoy water sports. In the summer months, it rains quite rarely, the main peak of precipitation is October, November and the first half of December. If you want to relax cheaper, then it does not hurt to know that in Pattaya in the "off-season" you can generally live for mere pennies. At this time, here you can rent spacious comfortable apartments near the sea for 7-10 thousand baht per month.

Outcome

Phuket is best suited for those who:

  • wants to soak up the sun on a clean beach where there are no crowds of people
  • flies to rest with children
  • not interested in cultural attractions, preferring beautiful nature

Pattaya is best suited for those who:

  • loves an active nightlife
  • uses the services of moths
  • wants to save
  • wants to visit local attractions

Updated: 2019.09.16

Which is better: Phuket or Pattaya? This question is one of the most popular among those who are going on vacation to Thailand and have not yet decided which of these two most popular resorts in the country is better to go to. The question is really important, but there is no definite answer to it. On the other hand, you can only get the most out of your holiday in Thailand if you make the right choice between Pattaya and Phuket, taking into account your ideas about the rest. The article presents a great comparison of Phuket and Pattaya in terms of the most important parameters that will allow you not to make a mistake and organize your best vacation in Thailand!

For ease of reading and a comprehensive understanding of which resort is best suited for you (Pattaya or Phuket), the most important characteristics are listed in separate paragraphs. With the help of links in the content, you have the opportunity to quickly jump to the most important point for you and find out: Phuket or Pattaya will be better for you in this regard. But I still recommend reading (or at least viewing) other comparative characteristics: many parameters are interrelated, each of them is important for comparison in its own way and can quite unexpectedly become decisive in the process of choosing Pattaya or Phuket as the optimal vacation spot.

THE CONTENT OF THE ARTICLE (for a quick transition, you can click on the link)

Phuket or Pattaya - where the climate and ecology are better

Choosing between Phuket and Pattaya, you need to know about the climate features in these Thai resorts. Both Phuket and Pattaya are located in the tropics, so there is no winter in our usual sense. Thailand is a country of eternal summer, but not everything is so simple. The main thing that distinguishes Pattaya and Phuket is the seasonality to varying degrees. Due to the location of resorts in the waters of different seas and even different oceans (see), there are significant differences in the weather at the resorts at different times of the year.

Surely many have already heard that Thailand (like many other countries located in the tropics) has a rainy season. Often, when this phrase is mentioned, the imagination immediately draws the following picture: for days and nights, streams of rain pour down from the sky, due to which the visibility on the street is only a few meters, and there can be no talk of a beach holiday at this time. If we talk about Thailand, then in reality, a similar picture can be observed in the northern regions of the country (see), but in Phuket and Pattaya everything is much better. But if the weather is of utmost importance to you, you should remember that the rainy season in Pattaya and Phuket are different things.

Stormy, muddy sea and rain are frequent during the rainy season in Phuket

Pattaya can without exaggeration be called a resort with the best climate in Thailand, because in fact it is a year-round resort. During the dry season, which lasts from November to April, it rains very rarely in Pattaya - 2-3 times a month, while the duration of the rain is no more than an hour, and more often - 20-30 minutes. During the rainy season in Pattaya (May to October), there is usually 1-2 times a week. At the same time, such a short-term rain almost does not interfere with rest (although a couple of times a year some areas of Pattaya can be flooded for several hours) and brings freshness. And the only drawback of the weather at this time in Pattaya is the periodic cloudiness in the sky (which will not hurt to get sunburned, if you do not know).

Unlike Pattaya, in Phuket, even during the dry season, it rains periodically (usually no more than 1-2 times a week), but during the rainy season, rainfall can fall daily and last from an hour to several hours. Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Therefore, do not think that someone is deceiving you when they say that they had a great rest in Phuket during the rainy season and during the two weeks of rest there was only a couple of precipitations - an hour a day. Yes, it may not rain every day. Yes, the rain can be after sunset or at night and does not interfere with the rest at all. But there may be a reverse situation, when the rain in Phuket lasts for several days and your vacation at this time will be ruined.

Pattaya Central Beach during intermittent rainfall (low season)

In addition, it is very important to know that during the rainy season, red flags may be displayed on the beaches of Phuket, prohibiting entry into the sea due to high waves. A muddy sea, partial overcast clouds and a high risk of prolonged rains are all clear disadvantages of Phuket over Pattaya, where such a situation is almost completely ruled out. Of course, if a beach holiday in Thailand is the main thing for which you are planning to visit this country. will allow you to see the weather at this resort in the Gulf of Thailand, and you can always see the state of the sea and weather on the tropical island of Phuket in real time, using the best selection of which is also presented on the site and is constantly updated with new cameras.

If we talk about whether Phuket or Pattaya is better from the point of view of the ecological situation, then the island is somewhat better with this than in Pattaya. And the air in Phuket in the area of ​​beach villages will always be somewhat cleaner than in Pattaya city with more traffic and residents, but with less vegetation. The disadvantage of Pattaya can be attributed to the unpleasant odors from the manholes of the city sewer, which now and then reach your nose while walking along the city streets. In Phuket (in the area of ​​some beaches), small muddy rivers are somewhat upset, which also resemble sewage drains and, during heavy rains, freely reach the sea.

Phuket or Pattaya - where the sea and beaches are better

In this matter, Phuket beats Pattaya, but with some reservations. Firstly, when it comes to the high season on the island. And secondly, if for comparison only the sea and beaches located directly within the city limits of Pattaya are taken. After the end of the rainy season, the sea in Phuket becomes calm and transparent, and its deep blue color is pleasing to the eye and looks great in photographs. Phuket has many more beaches than Pattaya, although only a few are the most popular, mainly in the western part of the island. At the same time, there are many beaches with a gentle entrance to the water and soft white sand, which makes rest with children in Phuket more comfortable. The beaches in Phuket are wider than in Pattaya, so even on the most popular of them you can find areas where no one will bother you.

Karon Beach in Phuket - view of the southern part in sunny weather (high season)

In Pattaya, the beaches are not so good. The central beach is very noisy and dirty. Suffice it to say that for 4 trips to Pattaya, I never dared to swim there. On other beaches of Pattaya (and there are seven of them in the city limits (see) the situation is better, but there is no need to talk about ideal transparency, although the water is cleaner than at many Russian resorts. The sand on Pattaya beaches has a yellowish tint and a larger fraction. C On the other hand, during the rainy season (which I wrote about in the previous section), Pattaya beaches outperform Phuket beaches, or at least not worse.Photos and videos of Pattaya beaches can be seen in a separate article (link above).

And if you take into account the coral island of Koh Lan, which is located just a few kilometers from Pattaya and which is easy to reach by ferry for only 30 TBH ($ 0.85), then during the rainy season Pattaya generally looks preferable in terms of sea and beaches. you can find the link, and also find out which beaches of the island are better not to choose because of the mass recreation of noisy Chinese tourists. During my last trip to Thailand, I rested (and collected information for the site) in several resorts at once, both in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, but most of all I liked the color of the water and transparency on one of the beaches of Ko Lan Island near Pattaya (see photo below).

All this I am writing so that beach lovers are not afraid to go to Pattaya, after hearing enough stories about dirty beaches and muddy water. If you are not afraid of a 45 minute ferry ride to the island and back, a beach holiday in Pattaya will be great. In response to the question: "Pattaya or Phuket - where are the best beaches?" - you can also add that on most of Pattaya's beaches and on Koh Lan there is a sufficient number of sun loungers that can be rented for the whole day for 50-100 THB. But in Phuket in 2015, sun loungers on the beaches were banned and now you can sunbathe either on a towel, or on a mat, or on a rented mattress. On the one hand, this makes the beaches more picturesque. But on the other hand, it does not add convenience to vacationers. Diving, snorkeling and sea fishing are better in Phuket than in Pattaya (again in case of high season on the island). And active water sports are present in both resorts in sufficient quantities.

Pattaya or Phuket - much cheaper flights

According to this indicator, Pattaya almost always wins over Phuket. If we are talking about flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg, air tickets to Bangkok (namely, to the capital's airport it is easier and cheaper to fly on vacation to Pattaya) cost about 2-3 thousand Russian rubles less than air tickets to Phuket. In this case, we are talking about both direct flights and flights with transfers. If the flight is planned to be carried out from other Russian cities (Irkutsk, Vladivostok, Yekaterinburg, etc.), air tickets to Bangkok are on average cheaper than to Phuket by 4-6 thousand rubles or 15-20%.

In the case of air tickets to Thailand from Belarus and Ukraine, Pattaya (Bangkok airport) definitely wins over Phuket, because the difference in price is on average 30-40%. And in the case of Kazakhstan (flights from Almaty and Astana), the overpayment for a flight to Phuket can exceed 60% compared to a flight to Bangkok. To be fair, I want to note that we are talking about the average price. During the special offers of airlines flying from many major cities, the difference in the cost of air tickets to Phuket and Bangkok may not be as noticeable (for example, 5-10%).

Let me remind you that it is better to look for the best price for air tickets not on the websites of airlines, but using a metasearch that scans all airlines and leading air ticket agencies at once, so that all experienced travelers can always purchase tickets at the best price at the time of the search. The search form that I always use when planning my travels is below. And in order not to miss the opportunity to buy a ticket at the best price, I advise you to additionally familiarize yourself with the information on the page and apply this information in practice.

I also remind you that if you absolutely want to relax in Phuket, but air tickets from the nearest airport to this island are much more expensive than to Bangkok, you can always fly to the capital of Thailand, and from there get to Phuket in about 12 hours by bus (there is nightly, allowing you to save on the hotel). Bus tickets can be ordered and even paid for in advance using a reputable service for searching of all types (link to the Russian-language version of the service).

Pattaya or Phuket: road to and from the airport

If we compare which is better - Pattaya or Phuket in terms of the road from the airport to the resort and back, then we must take into account two indicators: travel time and cost of travel. When it comes to travel time, Phuket has a slight edge. The international airport is located directly on the island (in the northern part), so the road to the popular beaches on the west coast takes from half an hour to an hour (on average 45 minutes), depending on the transport you choose and the specific beach. When it comes to traveling to Pattaya from Bangkok Airport (which is located only 110 km from the resort) and connected to it by the expressway, the journey takes approximately 1.5-2 hours (also depending on the mode of transport).

Thus, we can conclude that the road from your city to the place of residence in Phuket will be about one hour shorter than when flying to Bangkok and moving to Pattaya. However, in reality this is not entirely true. Phuket is located south of Bangkok, so it is almost certain that the flight time to the island is about one hour longer than to the capital's airport Suvarnabhumi. Those. the road to both resorts from the city of your departure to Thailand will take approximately the same time. You can also add that while searching for flights to Phuket, you will surely find options that include an additional connection in Bangkok. In this case, the travel time to your holiday destination in Phuket will increase even more.

Now let's compare the cost of local transport. When using a taxi from the airport, Phuket has a slight advantage (approximately 25%). But when it comes to inexpensive public transport, Phuket, which has its own airport, loses to Pattaya, even taking into account the fact that in the latter case we are talking about a much greater distance. For example: a small bus ride to Patong Beach will cost 150-180 THB per person, and to Karon and Kata beaches - 180-200 Thai baht (depending on the carrier). The road to Pattaya on a comfortable intercity bus costs from 134 baht(cm. ). And the difference in price is enough for public transport in Pattaya.

Local transport in Phuket and Pattaya - comparison

During a vacation at any resort, the issue of mobility is quite acute. Indeed, very few people spend their entire vacation on the territory of hotels (if we are not talking about Turkey and Egypt with all-inclusive hotels). So where is the best local transport - in Phuket or Pattaya? This is the first item in this big resort comparison where Pattaya is winning an undeniable victory. To get from one end of the resort to the other, for example, from north to south, you will need in most cases only 30 baht (less than $ 1). And to drive a rather impressive part of the resort without a transfer, you need only 10 baht.

Transport in Pattaya - tuk tuk or songthaew for 10 baht

The Patatya transport system is so simple and convenient that in order to use it, you only need to remember a few routes and points where transfers are made. You can read more about this in the article, which will help you to save a lot of time and money during your vacation. Even in the case of additional use of taxis and motorcycle taxis in Pattaya, your travel expenses from point A to point B in the resort only in rare cases will exceed 100-150 baht. To visit Koh Lan, you just need to get to the pier (in the very center of the resort) and buy a ferry ticket (30 baht) or speedboat (150 baht for a round trip ticket, including a free drink on board).

But the local transport in Phuket is one of the obvious disadvantages of the resort. Thanks to the strong lobby of taxi drivers (who are rumored to be "covered" by the Chinese mafia), public transport between the beaches of Phuket is not provided. For tourists, this means one thing: you must either use the public songteo buses for 30 baht to get from your beach to Phuket Town (the administrative center of the island), and from there, use the same transport to get to another beach. Those. the road to another beach using even the cheapest public transport will cost at least 60 baht one way. But you still need to get back and forth, which requires another 60 baht and a lot of time - the most valuable resource while on holiday in Thailand.

Phuket transport - expensive tuk-tuk taxi

Taxis can of course be used to travel to nearby beaches. But due to the lack of competition from cheap public transport, local taxi drivers have long lost the remnants of conscience and demand 300-400 baht one way for a 5-7 minute trip. And despite the statements of the Thai authorities to finally put things in order in this matter and "rein in" the taxi drivers a little, the situation has not changed for many years. If you want to go to the islands, you will also have to initially get from the beach to Phuket Town, then to the desired pier and buy a tour from a local travel agency there. As a result, it is much more profitable to rent a car for a vacation in Phuket or for a few days, during which you are planning a rich excursion program. It is most profitable to do this right at the airport of the island, but in Phuket Town and on popular beaches, you can also find places with inexpensive rentals. The approximate cost of renting a car per day is $ 25- $ 30 for a small 4-seater car with air conditioning, automatic transmission (which is important when the driver's seat is on the right) and insurance against theft and damage to the car. Those. for the indicated amount, comparable in price to a 20-minute taxi ride, you get a completely different degree of freedom for a whole day. Of course, if you have a driver's license. To rent a car in Phuket, it is best to use the search form below, with which you can choose the best available option for your dates from a dozen reputable rental offices at once.

Hotels in Pattaya and Phuket - where is better and cheaper

During any independent travel, living expenses usually represent about 30% of the vacation budget. And the proportion of these costs grows in proportion to the time spent at the resort. Therefore, it is very important to compare: where are the best hotels - in Phuket or Pattaya, and where accommodation will be less expensive. Phuket is in many ways more expensive than Pattaya and hotels are no exception in this comparison. On average, Phuket hotels are about 15-20% more expensive than similar hotels in Pattaya. But in this situation it cannot be argued that Phuket is definitely losing. Good hotels in a good location (by the sea or near places of entertainment - whoever you like) can be found both there and there. Both resorts offer both hotels from a chain of world hotel chains (Hilton, InterContinental, Marriott, etc.) and independent hotels.

Competent planning of your trip to Thailand, in which you study the cost of living at the selected resort in advance and use it to search, will most likely select a hotel of the right class, with the right set of services and at a price suitable for your budget. This applies to both city hotels and guesthouses located in areas with an active nightlife, and luxurious five-star hotels with their own territory on the first line from the sea (there are more such in Phuket than in Pattaya). Also, a distinctive feature of expensive hotels in Phuket is that many of them involve living in detached bungalows, often located on the slopes of the hills, surrounded by well-groomed bushes and palm trees. These hotels are not cheap, but the view that opens directly from the rooms is worth it.

In Pattaya, however, most of the hotels of even the highest class are classic multi-storey buildings with various sizes of territories or even without them. For lovers of panoramic pools overlooking the sea, I can tell you that you can find these in Phuket and Pattaya. In the latter case - usually on the roof of the hotel, as in - one of the best hotels in the city according to tourists' reviews, where you definitely need to stay for at least a couple of days while relaxing in the city (especially if you want to please your soul mate or just impress her ). By the way, you can see the pool of this hotel using one of Pattaya's webcams overlooking the sea.

Food in hotels is about the same in quality and variety, especially since in Thailand this is far from the most important point that you need to pay attention to when choosing a hotel. Please note: in hotels in Thailand (no matter where: in Pattaya or Phuket) the All Inclusive system and generally multiple meals are not developed. Usually only breakfast is included in the price. Free Wi-Fi in 2016-2017 is no longer a luxury, but a standard service not only in five-star hotels, but also in inexpensive guesthouses. Therefore, it will be more difficult for you to find a hotel without this service than with it. For those who would like to stay in one of the island hotels located directly on the beach (and there are very few of them in reality), I advise you to see the selection by clicking on the link.

Pattaya vs Phuket - price comparison at resorts

Since the prices for accommodation and transport have already been sorted out in the previous paragraphs, it remains to compare the cost of food, drinks, fruits, entertainment and shopping in general in order to understand whether Phuket or Pattaya is better in this regard for recreation. Going on vacation and planning your food expenses, you need to prepare for the fact that the cost of visiting local cafes and even the prices of street food in Phuket is 30% or more higher. For many items, the difference in prices generally exceeds 100%, i.e. there is more than a twofold difference. Let me give you the simplest example. If you eat in Pattaya from mobile street stalls (makashnits), then the cost of a chicken skewer is 10 baht, a slightly larger portion of pork is 20 baht, and a large piece of chicken fillet (in the center of the photo below) is 50 baht.

Street food in Pattaya - kebabs on a skewer. In Phuket, everything is 1.5-2 times more expensive!

In Phuket, similar food is offered for 20-30 baht, 30-40 baht and 80-100 baht, respectively. Of course, in some places you can find street food at the same prices, but this will take a lot of time searching, especially during the high tourist season in Phuket (usually the lowest prices are in the night markets). And there is such a difference in price for almost all goods. Pancakes with banana or mango (pencakes) in Pattaya - almost everywhere 40 baht. In Phuket - from 60 and above. Even on Walking Street in Pattaya- the center of the resort's nightlife - you can easily find many bars where the price of a bottle of beer starts from 50-60 baht. In Phuket, the minimum price in night bars is 80 baht. An even greater difference in prices can be for fruits, not only at street vendors, but also in large stores (Big C and Tesco Lotus).

The service sector does not lag behind merchants. In Phuket, in comparison with Pattaya, you will overpay one and a half to two times for Thai massage (classic, foot massage, oil massage and other types), for hairdresser services, for renting a motorbike (both when renting for a day or for a long-term rental) ), for mototaxi services (about the "appetites" of taxi drivers already mentioned above), for going to the cinema, for active water activities on the beach (banana, parasailing, aquabike, etc.) - it will take too long to list everything. The conclusion is this: in terms of the cost of rest in the resort, Phuket outright loses to Pattaya in all respects.

The price of massage in Phuket. Off the beach 100 baht cheaper, but still 1.5 times more expensive than Pattaya

By the way, who is interested: close communication with local (more precisely, with working in Phuket) Thai girls in Phuket will also cost about 1.5 times more. That is why a lot of tourists come to the island with Thais, previously "rented" for a long time in Pattaya. A very popular question is: "Pattaya or Phuket - where is the best shopping?" You can answer this way: about the same level, but in Pattaya, of course, everything is cheaper. In addition, it is easy to get from Pattaya to Bangkok, where shopping is the best in all of Thailand (and possibly in the whole of Southeast Asia).

Pattaya or Phuket - where are the best attractions

Another important point and another clear victory of Pattaya over Phuket. Almost all the sights of Phuket can be enumerated on the fingers of one hand. In addition to natural attractions (observation decks, waterfalls and neighboring islets), in Phuket, only the Old Town can be noted (there are colorful Portuguese and Dutch-style streets left from Europeans), several old temples and the Big Buddha statue (which was built in the 21st century). Of course, there are such facilities on the island as a dolphinarium, an aquarium, a butterfly park, a water park, and an elephant and snake show. But all this is also present in Pattaya, so it can be "taken out of the brackets."

Wat Chalong is one of the few attractions in Phuket

If we compare the excursion attractiveness of Phuket and Pattaya, then Pattaya is far ahead too. Due to the location of Phuket in the southern part of the country, you cannot find any interesting excursions (not counting sea excursions around the islands) here either. Of course, you can visit the province of Krabi, but this trip is not close and consists in most cases in visiting natural attractions (thermal springs, rocks, lakes). The road from Phuket to Bangkok by bus takes about 12 hours, and cheap flights are not always available.

The Temple of Truth in Pattaya is one of the most beautiful buildings in Thailand

But Pattaya is good for both one-day excursions and a little longer. From Pattaya, it is customary to make excursions to the tiger zoo in Sirache, the interesting Khao Kheow Open Zoo, the Safari World safari park in the vicinity of Bangkok. Just a couple of hours by bus - and you are in Bangkok itself, where you can spend your entire vacation exploring the temples and not even visit half of them. But you can still visit the largest in the world, which you can spend a whole day on, the Erawan Museum, the floating market in Bangkok, the Chinese and Indian quarters, observation decks on the tallest skyscrapers in Thailand, etc.

From Pattaya popular 2-3 day excursions to one of the most beautiful provinces in the center of the country - Kanchanaburi, as well as one-day excursions to the ancient capital of the country - Ayutthaya. Finally, choosing Pattaya as a holiday destination allows you to easily get to the islands of Ko Chang and Ko Samet, as well as make an excursion to the neighboring country - Cambodia with its amazing Angkor Wat temple. To be fair, it can be noted here that it is more convenient and faster to get to Koh Samui and Krabi from Phuket Island, but from Pattaya it is not too difficult to do this if there are cheap night buses and proximity to Bangkok.

Pattaya or Phuket - much cheaper tours

As a rule, the cost of ready-made tours to Pattaya is slightly lower than the cost of similar tours to Phuket Island (when staying in a hotel of the same category, taking a charter flight and the same type of food included in the package price). This, in general, is quite understandable, because the flight to Phuket lasts longer, and everything on the island (hotels and food) is also more expensive not only for independent travelers, but also for tour operators). Such a difference in prices is most noticeable when choosing hotels in Phuket that are located close to the coastal strip.

Pattaya or Phuket - the cost of tours to Phuket (12 nights)

But due to the fact that today everyone who wants to relax in Phuket or Pattaya on a tourist voucher has a chance to do it with minimal costs, it can be argued that tours to Phuket and Pattaya cost about the same. The difference of about $ 50 for a ten-day tour, which can be both in favor of Pattaya and in favor of Phuket - depending on the chosen day of departure - may not be included in the calculation. For those who do not know yet: it is better to look for the best prices for ready-made tours to Thailand not on the websites of tour operators, but using special services that accumulate all the hot offers in one place. By the way, in this case, the last-minute vouchers mean not only those that involve a departure in the coming days, but with a departure within the next month and even further.

For example, the article contains several screenshots. I took advantage of it, which in 95% of cases finds the lowest prices for tickets with a departure from Moscow. If you are interested in a flight from another city in Russia, you can additionally check the prices in a competing service - sometimes there are better offers). In the first and second screenshots - tours to Thailand (to Phuket and Pattaya) with a rest duration of 10 nights and a departure in two weeks (a good time to prepare for the trip) in the second half of November (the beginning of the high season at both resorts). The screenshots show not the lowest offers in Phuket or Pattaya, but meeting the general conditions of comparison: 3-star hotels with a pool and breakfasts.

Pattaya or Phuket - the cost of tours to Pattaya (12 nights)

As you can see, in both cases, the cost of a 12-night tour is about 70 thousand rubles for two, or about 35 thousand per person (about $ 550 per person at the current rate). At the same time, the price of tours to Phuket is even lower than to Pattaya. The higher price for tours to Pattaya is due to the smaller number of hotels with their own pools in this resort. If the pool is not required, it is easy to find a tour to Pattaya for about 30 thousand rubles per person. The service is convenient in that it allows you to find ready-made tours to a specific resort, and the duration of tours to Thailand can be not only standard 7-15 days, but any number of days up to 30 (29 nights)!

Thus, it is impossible to give a definite answer to the question: "Phuket or Pattaya - which is better in terms of buying a tour?" After all, modern technologies allow you to find tours similar in price, convenience and duration to both Phuket and Pattaya. But here it is important to remember that while vacationing in Phuket, your additional costs will certainly be higher than during a package vacation in Pattaya. Indeed, as has been repeatedly mentioned above in the text, in Phuket, almost everything is 20-50% more expensive than in Pattaya.

Phuket or Pattaya - where is it safer

It is more correct to answer this question in the context of the main potential dangers that can be encountered while vacationing in the Land of Smiles. Over the past two years, I have regularly read crime stories in resorts in Thailand, so I can argue that there is a chance to lose money and valuables in Pattaya and Phuket. As a rule, thefts and robberies are in the first place, and ladyboys (in both resorts) or guest workers from Burma (in Phuket) are most often responsible for such crimes. Typical victims of such crimes are inattentive tourists in crowded places (pickpocketing) or people walking alone while intoxicated at night (street robbery with possible beatings).

If we talk about general safety during the rest, then in Phuket there is a risk of becoming a victim of a reef current (see), getting injuries and burns from dangerous jellyfish of the Indian Ocean while swimming in the sea (usually beaches are closed for swimming in the presence of such living creatures in the water) ... Also in Phuket, in an unfortunate coincidence of circumstances, get injured during a fall from a motorbike (annually in Phuket, several hundred tourists due to poor motorbike driving skills and alcohol intoxication become victims of an accident). Finally, Phuket is located in the Indian Ocean, which sometimes experiences devastating tsunamis. The last major tsunami, which claimed the lives of several thousand people, occurred in December 2004 and, among other coastal areas, covered Phuket. You can easily find eerie shots of bodies on the shore at the request "tsunami in Thailand".

Phuket or Pattaya - where it is safer - Tsunami in Thailand 2004

If we talk about Pattaya, then there are no reef currents at all, there is no danger of a tsunami either. Pattaya is not only located in the Gulf of Thailand, where there are no tectonic faults in the earth's crust, but also in a rather narrow part of this gulf, where the wave, in any case, would not have enough distance to gain destructive speed and height. As for motorbikes, there is always a risk of falling off them, but due to the cheapness of public transport in Pattaya, motorbike rentals are far from being as popular here as in Phuket. However, this does not mean that in Pattaya you need to relax in matters of ensuring your own safety. God saves man, who save himself! Remember this always, wherever you are - in Phuket or Pattaya - and everything will be OK! In separate articles on the site you can find out more about some of the common resorts.

Phuket or Pattaya - where is it better?

It's time to take stock of this big comparison and determine which resort is still better: Pattaya or Phuket. If you have carefully read the article, you probably have already identified for yourself the main criteria that meet (or vice versa does not correspond) this or that resort. For those who prefer to immediately familiarize themselves with the conclusions, below are brief recommendations on which resort is more suitable for you based on the goals of your vacation in Thailand, and also highlighted the main advantages and disadvantages of Pattaya and Phuket in comparison with each other.

Phuket's advantages over Pattaya:

+ a large selection of excellent beaches within walking distance from the places of residence,
+ clean beautiful sea right at the resort (during high season),
+ the presence of interesting sea excursions,
+ the possibility of diving and snorkeling,
+ more greenery in the resort and slightly better environmental conditions.

Disadvantages of Phuket:

- weak excursion program;
- the minimum number of interesting sights on the island and in the region in general;
- little sun, strong waves, rain and muddy water during the low season;
- lack of cheap local transport and impudent taxi drivers;
- almost all entertainment - on Patong Beach;
- noticeably higher prices FOR EVERYTHING compared to Pattaya.

Who should choose Phuket

If for you during your holiday in Thailand beach vacation is in the first place, i.e. the main thing for you is the presence of a good beach with clear water within walking distance from the hotel, then Phuket is your choice. True, you should be prepared for the fact that the budget for your vacation due to the high cost of the resort will be noticeably larger than when you are on vacation in Pattaya. And when choosing Phuket, do not forget about the pronounced seasonality on this tropical island, as well as the fact that the cultural program during your holidays in Phuket will be limited. Also Phuket during the low season is perfect for surfers, because it is here that there are many special schools, and in the fall, international competitions in this sport are held.

Advantages of Pattaya over Phuket:

+ the cheapest resort in Thailand (more eventful vacation with a lower budget);
+ year-round resort (no pronounced seasonality);
+ the best place to shop (due to lower prices and proximity to Bangkok);
+ the presence of attractions and interesting excursions in the resort and nearby;
+ cheap local transport
+ cheaper air tickets (when flying to Bangkok).

Disadvantages of Pattaya:

- lack of beaches with crystal clear water in the city;
- more hotels without their own territory;
- in many areas of the city - more noisy than in Phuket (except for Patong beach);
- the presence of unpleasant odors at the sewer manholes (in the first days it can be annoying).

Who is better for Pattaya:

If you want to have a good rest on a modest budget and at the same time the main thing for you during your vacation is parties, acquaintance with the history and culture of Thailand and shopping (in the resort and in Bangkok) - your choice is Pattaya. Also, this resort is more suitable for single men who want to find exotic adventures during their holidays. Beach holidays here can also be great, because the resort has many beaches that are easy and cheap to get to from any part of Pattaya. And if you do not want to put up with not entirely transparent water on the beaches of the city - just 45 minutes from the resort there is the coral island of Ko Lan with white sand and crystal clear water. At the same time, you can go on vacation to Pattaya at any time of the year, without waiting for the right season. Also, a vacation in Pattaya with children will be much more interesting for the latter, when they are suitable in age for excursions to amusement parks, water parks and zoos.

Perhaps someone, after carefully reading the entire article, noticed the lack of comparison of tropical nature in Phuket and Pattaya. Therefore, at the end I would like to add that for real exoticism you need to go to other resorts of the country (for example, to the coconut island of Ko Samui). But if from rest in Thailand you want not only clean sea and white sand, but you certainly plan to relax in Phuket or Pattaya, I advise you to get out at least for a few days to the neighboring resorts, which, in terms of exotic nature and picturesque beaches, are noticeably superior to Pattaya, and Phuket and are better suited for romantic getaways (for example, honeymoon trip). While on vacation in Pattaya, I advise you to visit the Koh Chang island in the Gulf of Thailand, and while on vacation in Phuket - the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea.

I hope the big comparison of resorts has allowed all those who have not yet been to Thailand, but are going to relax in this wonderful country, to more consciously approach the choice of Phuket or Pattaya as a vacation destination. If we draw the main conclusion that "Phuket or Pattaya - which is better?"- then there can be no single answer. It all depends on the main goals of your vacation, the season and the available budget. In most cases, choosing Pattaya or Phuket, you have to make some kind of compromise. And to finally determine what is best for you: Phuket or Pattaya - you can only visit both resorts on your own. I wish you a great holiday and bright positive emotions, regardless of which resort you choose in the end - Pattaya or Phuket!

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Which is better - Pattaya or Phuket? This question is most often asked by tourists who fly to Thailand for the first time. And although there are no comrades in taste and color, there are several objective factors that can be compared and thereby facilitate the torment of choice for beginners. So…

Where is the best place to rest?

One of the most important conditions is, of course, the sea. According to this parameter, the clear leader is Phuket. There is more greenery here, the coastal strip is wider, the sea is many times cleaner, and the descent into it is shallower, which is an additional plus if you come to rest with small children.

In Pattaya, it is more pleasant to just sunbathe on the beach, but it is better to go into the sea to swim on a boat or boat. If you want to swim, it is advisable to go to the nearby islands, for example, ... On the way, you will be 45 minutes and pay about 30 baht one way for one passenger ( ). There are much more beaches in Phuket, you can choose secluded places. Pattaya is crowded everywhere.

Another important circumstance when deciding the question of Pattaya or Phuket: where is the best place to relax is the climate. Here Pattaya takes the lead. From November to April - in the dry season - it rains a maximum of twice a month, and even then, no more than half an hour. During the rainy season, there is an average of twice a week, although the sky is often overcast. Phuket often experiences large waves and dangerous underwater currents during low season, so watch out for warning flags.


In terms of ecology, Phuket is better. Almost half of the resort is occupied by forests, which improves air quality. Pattaya doesn't even have parks.

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Pattaya or Phuket: which is better?

As for reviews on such parameters as attractions and prices, then it is better to choose Pattaya. Phuket is considered one of the most expensive resorts, and you will pay much more for living here. There are also budget hotels, but they are rarely found on the Internet, and you will have to walk a long walk to the sea. There are practically no attractions in Phuket - just a few old temples and waterfalls. It takes 12-14 hours to get to Bangkok and Ayutthaya or.


When comparing entertainment, reviews are divided. In both resorts you can find something to do, but in Pattaya the prices are lower, but there is no snorkeling here,

The Asian destination has become especially popular among Russian tourists today. Thailand has become a favorite vacation spot for travelers.

Among the most famous places according to reviews, cities are distinguished Pattaya and Phuket.

These two resort destinations are in constant competition with each other and when deciding where to go on vacation, you should carefully read the advantages of each of them.

Pattaya or Phuket: the sea

Pattaya - you are going to swim in the Gulf of Thailand, the South China Sea.

Due to the large number of tourists, sandy beaches may not appear as golden, and the water is not as clear as you have seen in the advertisements.

But nevertheless, the temperature here even in the winter season will not be less than 26 degrees, and the average depth is only 10-15 meters.

Phuket, washed by the Andaman Sea, has a number of beneficial advantages in terms of water quality. No wonder crowds of divers have long chosen this particular island.

But, although the beauty of underwater caves, coral reefs and exotic fish invariably attracts tourists, do not forget about the considerable depth inherent in these dangerous currents. , on average 1043 meters. The average water temperature here all year round is not lower than 27 degrees.

According to official statistics, it was established that the further south the direction, the higher the water quality in Thailand.

BUT the type of rest is also important. For couples with children, the safer option will still be - the water area of ​​the Gulf of Thailand with soft waves and a smooth descent.

How to get there?

In order to get from Bangkok to Pattaya, you have to cover a distance of 150 kilometers and spend 2.5 hours on it.

But getting to Phuket is much longer, unless of course you fly by plane. In this case, instead of 12 hours, you will only spend an hour on the road.

Types of transport links:

  • Taxi. There are special information desks right at the airport, where they will be happy to help you make an order. A private car will cost about 2500 baht.
  • Bus. A more budget option will cost you 124 baht. You can buy a ticket at the box office on the ground floor. It is important to clarify the place of departure!
  • A train. The road will take the maximum amount of time, but it will be the minimum in cost, the maximum is 80 baht per person. You will need to get to the train station, the best option is to use the metro. Important! The train leaves once a day at exactly 6.55

A longer journey awaits those who decide to travel from Bangkok to Phuket, there are two options:

  • Bus. Departures either from the South or from the North bus station. There are different classes, from comfort to economy. Depending on their choice, the price will be added. Minimum THB 600 per person.
  • Airplane. The most convenient and fastest way. five airlines are ready to provide their services. The minimum price is from 1000 baht, the price depends on the chosen company.

Hitchhikers will definitely delight in Thailand.

Where to find the best beach?

Both the water and the beaches of Pattaya are far from ideal. But if you wish, you can choose the appropriate option.

Let's consider some of the most popular ones available:

  • Central beach. This beach is for the laziest. Dirty, noisy, due to the nearby highway, a high degree of gas pollution. The place is not for families with small children. On the plus side, there is a well-developed infrastructure, you just need to lend a hand and the cocktail is yours.
  • Jomtien Beach. The area is not inferior to the Central Beach. There are many cafes at the service of tourists. bars, restaurants, souvenir shops, exchange offices, everything your heart desires. Despite the efforts of the Thais, the beach can hardly be classified as perfectly clean, although entrepreneurs are making a lot of efforts to attract tourists.
  • Pratumnak Bik. It is rightfully considered one of the cleanest and most well-groomed. It has a wide coastline and a natural recreation area where you can hide from the scorching sun - a grove.
  • Cozy Beach. It should be noted right away that the path to the beach is not the easiest one. Not a single type of public transport goes there, you have to rent a car or take a taxi. But the road will be paid for by a clean, calm beach. Here you can take a break from the bustle of the city.
  • Wongamat Beach. In terms of water quality and cleanliness of the coastline, it earned the first place among city beaches. Located in the North. Having chosen it, you should take care of a large umbrella, otherwise, in the very heat, you will definitely not be able to hide there under the shade of palm trees.

There are a huge number of beaches in Phuket, as well as in Pattaya.

Consider a number of the most popular and their benefits:

  • Patong. The busiest and most famous beach in Phuket. Compared to other local beaches, the water here is not the most transparent, but the tourist sector is best developed here. Lots of bars, cafes, shops, restaurants and hotels.
  • Nai Harn. A very calm, secluded place with clear water and white sand. You can hide from the heat in the nearby grove. There is a temple and a pond not far from the beach. There are practically no hotels, cafes and restaurants nearby.
  • Bang Tao. Very clean and calm beach, there are few people even in season - strong waves. Of course, if you come with small children this is not the best choice. Although there is a grove nearby, where you can hide and wait out the very heat, one of the advantages is the availability of cafes and hotels.
  • Kata Noi. The beach is separated from the motorway by a line of hotels. The clean, small, quiet beach is popular with tourists. It is easier to get there by motorcycle, there may be problems with parking with a car.

Almost all of Phuket's beaches are characterized by clear water and medium-sized clean sand.

Among the disadvantages are the frequent steep approaches and waves, the coastline is not full of many cafes, bars and restaurants.

Pattaya will have calm water, but in terms of purity and quality, the sand and water will be inferior to the beaches of Phuket.

The article may be interesting:

sights

Fans of cultural recreation will have something to please themselves. In Phukuet, you can enjoy the beauty of numerous temples and get to know the integral religious component of Thai life.

The famous temple complex with a 49-meter statue of Buddha plus an observation deck has become a favorite spot for tourists.

The entrance will be free for you. Before visiting, the female half should pay attention to her clothes. Be sure to cover your shoulders and knees!

The temple keeps a rich history. Having visited it, you can not only see, but also participate in local rituals. And also, according to legend, it is in this temple that the relics of Buddha are located.

Lovers of the flora can go to the aquarium or visit the Botanical Garden. Phuket has a real orchid garden.

Here you can not only admire the beauty of these flowers. but also try ice cream made by the hostess herself. A visit to the zoo will take at least 2 hours.

Pattaya city is also rich in temples. Be sure to visit the Big Buddha Temple and the Temple of Truth.

The latter is made of wood and, as local guides say, without a single nail, although in fact there are nails in the structure, but they are not driven in to the end. Attention should be paid to the mini-Siam park.

Here the sights of the whole world are recreated in miniature.

Animal lovers will not be bored here either. The real village of elephants, the village of crocodiles and the Siraca Tiger Zoo will gladly open their doors.

The bottle museum is popular, where exhibits of various times and purposes are collected.

Undoubtedly, the sea and beaches have become the main attraction of Phuket and Pattaya, but cultural values ​​should not be ignored either.

Entertainment availability

Entertainment in Pattaya can be very diverse:

  • Night clubs and discos. The most popular are Insomnia, Lucifer, WalkingStreet Pub, Marine Disco.Most of all, all clubs provide free admission, but waiters will constantly offer you a cocktail or order a hookah. On average, the price for them is around 80 baht.
  • Large amusement park. You can get there during the day and in the evening, for the smallest admission is free. Here you can ride the rides, at your disposal are six water hills, a cable car, real roller coasters and carousels.
  • A wide range of entertainment for adults. Your choice of bars with GO-GO dancers, massage parlors, developed sex industry
  • Alkazar Show. This is a vivid musical performance of transsexuals.

Of course, the range of entertainment in the city is great, but it is the direction of sex tourism and nightlife that has gained the greatest popularity here.

In Phuket, you will never get bored either:

  • Amusement park fantasy. here you will ride carousels and roller coasters, plunge into the fabulous world of exotic animals, see a show in the style of Las Vegas. It will not be boring for both adults and young guests. The price of pleasure is not small more than 2000 baht. entrance from 4 years old already paid
  • Diving. Fans of this sport will be able to appreciate the underwater world with its exotic flora and fauna.
  • Bungy Jump. This is entertainment for the most daring lovers of extreme tourism. This is a free fall from a height of 50 meters. The pleasure will cost around 2,200 baht. And if you get the hang of it, you can purchase a package of offers, the price for a few jumps will become more favorable.
  • Underwater motorcycles- another option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Phuket and Pattaya are places that are ready to provide the tourist with a wide range of all kinds of entertainment at an affordable price. The main thing is to determine the direction.

Prices in Pattaya and Phuket: where is cheaper?

  • Taxi. When comparing prices, one should immediately note the difference in distance. In Phuket, the price for a trip will be more than twice as high, but the distance covered will be more than 4 times. On average, a taxi ride in Phuket will be 400 baht, in Pattaya 150 baht.
  • Public transport. A trip by minibus will cost 10 baht - on the local tuk-tuki in Pattaya, it moves along almost all the streets. The same minibus in Phuket will cost at least three times more.
  • Residence. The cost of living will definitely be higher in Phuket.
  • Transport rental. The standard price in Thailand is 200-300 baht per day for a motorbike.

1 Thai baht is about 2 rubles today. Prices for food and accommodation both in Phuket and Pattaya for Russians are more than adequate.

For those who are planning the maximum budget trip, it is worth stopping at the choice of the city of Pattaya.

Fruit and food price

How much money you have to take for food depends on your needs, but if you want to save money, buying it is more profitable in large supermarkets.

Average fruit price in Pattaya:

  • Mango about 70 baht per kilogram;
  • Strawberries - about 55 baht per 300 grams;
  • Watermelons 25 baht per kilogram;
  • Mandarins 55 baht per kilogram;
  • Grapes 90 baht per kilogram.

Meat products are read as the most expensive, for example a kilogram of chicken will cost about 70 baht, and pork is twice as expensive.

Garnish in the form of vegetables - about 30 baht per kilogram of potatoes. Cucumbers and tomatoes for about the same price, about 30 baht.

In supermarkets, food prices in Pattaya and Phuket do not differ, the difference may be in the markets.

The price of fruits and vegetables practically does not differ, this can be clearly seen in large supermarkets such as Big C.

On closer inspection, you will notice that there is a difference of 5-10 baht. So it's cheaper to eat in Pattaya.

Transport in Pattaya and Phuket

In Pattaya, you cannot find the usual transport for Russians. There is no tram or trolleybus service here.

But to get from point A to point B will help you:

  • Special tourist bus. The buses are painted in three colors, which indicates the route.
  • Knock-knock. Summer fixed-route taxi, without a roof.
  • Minibuses. Standard public transport has its own schedule and route with obligatory stops.
  • Moto taxi. For those who are ready for fast driving without traffic jams.
  • Taxi. The classic version. Reservations can be made directly from your hotel.

Phuket, like Pattaya, has tuk-tuks, taxis, motorcycle taxis, buses or songteos. I must say right away that getting around by bus is not entirely easy. They do not go from beach to beach, use tuk-tuk.

It will be advantageous to take a taxi only from the airport to the hotel and back, and in case of moving to a nearby province. The price of a taxi is rather big!

The modes of transport in Phuket and Pattaya are identical, the difference in distances and prices.

For lovers of outdoor activities and travel, independent movement on a scooter will be optimal in terms of price and level of mobility.

Flight from Russia: how to get to Phuket and Pattaya

There are no direct flights today. From Russia, it will be most convenient to get first to Bangkok. Presently 158 companies make direct flights.

The cheapest flight will be from Moscow. It is logical that flights with transfers will be cheaper than direct flights. The most demanded winter period.

It is more convenient to monitor flights through the search engines Aviasales and Skyscanner.

And already from Bangkok, depending on the chosen direction, it will be possible to get there by taxi, bus, train or plane.

How to find accommodation while traveling? Hotels and apartments

You can always use specialized Internet sites, such as Booking.com. But from an economic point of view, it will be more profitable to rent a house or apartment right on the spot upon arrival. .

Average price for a typical one-bedroom house no more than 15,000 baht per month... Naturally, the earlier you start booking, the cheaper your accommodation will be.

It is optimal to place an order about six months before the desired arrival time.

Experienced, courageous tourists are not afraid to look for a place in a hotel or hostel right on the spot. Everyone will be able to find housing according to their financial capabilities.

For example, a three-star hotel will cost about 1,500 thousand per day.

Staying at a hotel means to simplify your life as much as possible. But renting a small apartment will be more profitable from an economic point of view, especially if you are going to relax with a large company.

Tsunami threat

One of the main issues always troubling tourists in Thailand is the likelihood of natural disasters. The possibility of a tsunami in Pattaya is minimal, and in Phuket a little higher.

Of course, the rescue services are always ready to come to the rescue and 12 warning towers keep their finger on the pulse every day.

But here no one can give one hundred percent guarantees. Not much time has passed since the tragic events of 2004.

The article may be interesting:

Safety in Thailand

  • Firstly, there is a danger of earthquakes and, as a consequence, the possibility of a tsunami.
  • Second question- theft. Unfortunately, this is not a rare case. Therefore, you must first of all protect yourself. You should not wear expensive jewelry for an evening walk or leave your mobile phone on the beach.
  • Thirdly, exotic food. Be attentive and monitor your diet.

Consuming a wide variety of exotic foods can trigger an allergic reaction or food poisoning

Cleanliness and comfort

The cleanliness of the beaches in Pattaya, despite the fact that it is monitored by local entrepreneurs, sometimes leaves much to be desired.

In Phuket, the level of cleanliness is an order of magnitude higher... As for the coziness of Thai hotels, everything here, as a rule, is at the highest level.

If you decide to plan your trip to Thailand on your own, then it is worth it in advance, ideally six months in advance, attend to a number of questions:

  • Buy your tickets in advance. The most expensive flight.
  • Decide accommodation issue
  • Visa. Not needed if you are traveling for tourist purposes for a period not exceeding 30 days
  • First aid kit. Prepare all the necessary medication.
  • Create a route for moving around the country, buy a card or download it to your mobile phone
  • Examine the operating mode public transport

Transport in resorts

From public transport in Thailand there are buses, minibuses, taxis and motorcycle taxis.

The most optimal mode of transport today is tuk-tuk.

They have several advantages:

  • price;
  • work both during the day and at night;
  • the most unusual, exotic form of transport.

Finding the best insurance

Insurance not included in the list of mandatory documents, but for your own peace of mind it is better to have it. You can register at any travel agency in a few minutes.

It is optimal to issue it yourself via the Internet online - this is the most budgetary option.

Find cheap flights

If you want to buy a ticket at the lowest price, without extra charges and fees, then you should take up the issue at least half a year in advance. Use the internet portal Aviasales and Skyscanner.

You should watch the flight with transfers and most often the flight is carried out from the capital - the city of Moscow.

Find out the best hotel price

To find the best price, you first need to decide on the category of the hotel. Generally in Thailand there are all possible options from luxury class to super economy option.

If you look somewhere in the middle of three stars, then the hotel can be found even at the best price. 500 rubles per night.

Independent travel to Thailand

Ditching the package in favor of self-travel planning is fine, unless you have small children.

So, let's start preparing and planning:

  • Selecting a country, city and island;
  • Choice of the season and duration of the tour;
  • Decide on the composition of the participants;
  • Prepare a travel itinerary;
  • Search for cheap air tickets;
  • Search for accommodation;
  • Draw up the minimum required budget, taking into account the costs expenses for accommodation, food, transport are small;
  • Explore local customs.

Preparing for rest

It is better to start getting ready for a trip, especially if you are planning a tour on your own, six months in advance. This gives you the opportunity not only to prepare well, but also to spend the minimum amount of money.

It is more convenient to prepare for a family vacation with children together with a travel agent, they will help you to plan your vacation as comfortably as possible.

The finished tour immediately removes many questions, for example, how to get from the airport to the hotel.

The main task will be to prepare things for the trip:

  • clothes;
  • swimming accessories;
  • cosmetics, tanning and tanning products;
  • medicines.

When choosing Pattaya for vacation, keep in mind that rest here will be noisy and active... Lovers of clean sea will have to work hard to find the best beach.

There are always a lot of people at this resort. The direction of sex tourism is well developed.

Phuket

Choosing Phuket guarantees you a clean beach and clear water. But it is difficult to call it ideal for married couples. Entry into the water is quite steep everywhere, and the depth is great, plus the waves.

Prices here will be slightly higher than in Pattaya. Vacation here is more secluded and calm.

Samui

One of the three largest islands in Thailand. Relaxation is focused on tranquility and privacy. You will not find a lot of noisy night parties here.

Will delight you with a huge number of beaches with clear water... The pricing policy is average in Thailand both in terms of accommodation and food.

Bangkok

The capital of Thailand will delight all shopping lovers with prices. The city is beautiful, rich in cultural values, but very noisy.

Beach lovers have absolutely nothing to do here... But the nightlife is the liveliest.